Foundation Hopes for Tax Credits to Save Adobe Building

Marist College could get more than $19 million in tax credits for senior housing slated for 2018.

TUCSON—The Rio Nuevo Board recently approved funds for an affordable senior housing development  at Marist College , which also will repair and restore Arizona’s oldest and largest adobe building. Not only does this adobe material have natural insulation properties that make it cooler, but it gives it a distinctive historical design. The proposed project will bring eight affordable senior living apartments to the Marist site and construct 75 affordable senior living apartments on a neighboring lot. Foundation for Senior Living is hoping to be awarded more than $19 million in tax credits with additional funding from Tucson and Pima County. If awarded, construction could begin later this year and the apartments would be available to seniors by early 2018. Steve Hastings , director of real estate services for the Foundation for Senior Living, tells GlobeSt.com: “The urban renewal of the 70s demolished most of the amazing territorial structures in Tucson. The Marist College is a Tucson historic landmark and the only three-story historic structure in Arizona (and maybe in the nation), built with adobe mud. Even though it is 100 years old, the exterior rehab will return it to its original grandeur while the interior remodel will give the Marist another 100 years of purpose and importance to the community. This is an important project because the demand for affordable housing for seniors is high. The project would provide a viable option for seniors in Tucson and we’re hopeful it comes to fruition.” Some 3 million baby boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years. Foundation for Senior Living has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing. The team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support. “This is an important step in the process and represents a considerable contribution from the Tucson community. It brings us closer to the goal of saving the Marist and offering more affordable housing downtown to seniors who want access to the light rail and other amenities,” says Hastings.